About of the Ausable River
The Ausable River
begins at 4000 feet above sea level in the High Peaks Region of the Adirondack Mountains. It traverses through
mountainous terrain and exits spectacularly through a be drock gorge known as Ausable Chasm. It enters Lake Champlain at 100 feet above sea level. A large sandy delta at its mouth is
responsible for giving the river its name: “of the sand.” Due to the mountainous terrain within its watershed it is one of the steepest rivers in New York State, having an average gradient between 0.37% and 0.80%.
The Ausable River begins as two mountain streams known as the East Branch and the West Branch. The West Branch begins at the confluence of Marcy and South Meadow Brooks in the High Peaks and flows 35 miles northeast to Au Sable Forks. The East Branch begins in the Ausable Lakes and flows 32 miles to Au Sable Forks. The Main Stem completes the trip
from Au Sable Forks to Lake Champlain in 24 miles. In total the Ausable River drains 512 square miles of land.
The Ausable River is nationally and internationally known for its trout fishery, spectacular scenic beauty, and exceptional recreational opportunities including whitewater kayaking, and skiing. The West Branch hosts one of the longest stretches of catch-and-release fishing in New York State. In addition, the river’s watershed is home to nine of the
Highest Peaks in New York State: Algonquin, Basin, Cascade, Giant, Gothics, Haystack, Mount Marcy, Nippletop, and Whiteface. Over the years the river has played a central role in the history of many towns. Originally many of the towns relied on the river for mining operations, logging, paper production, and milling. Today, these same towns rely on the many tourists that come to fish, canoe/kayak, hike and sight-see along the Ausable River.
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